Chitrang Dave is a distinguished leader with extensive international experience in technology and data strategy. His expertise spans healthcare and life sciences, enterprise IT and consulting, showcasing a deep proficiency in advancing strategic initiatives and driving innovation across these sectors. As the Global Head of Enterprise Data and Analytics at Edwards Lifesciences, he excels in advancing data modernization and executing strategic initiatives. Chitrang’s previous role as IT Director for Data and Analytics at Medtronic showcased his expertise in championing a data products culture and implementing operational best practices. He leverages advanced technologies to drive transformative data solutions across diverse functions and has a strong track record in Data Architecture, Analytics, AI, and Business Intelligence.

Responsibilities in Strategic Execution

I have been with Edwards Lifesciences for about a year. I am primarily responsible for developing and implementing data and analytics solutions, crafting technology approaches and shaping organizational strategy to ensure the right resources and expertise within the organization are focused on the right opportunities. Beyond strategic planning, I focus on executing and optimizing our investments in technology and talent to drive effective project delivery. Additionally, stakeholder management is a critical component of my role. I work closely with business counterparts to align strategies and ensure our initiatives are successfully implemented and aligned with our overall goals.

Impact of AI on Data Strategy and Analytics

The increasing interest and focus on AI have highlighted the need for an effective data strategy. I believe that a successful AI strategy depends on a solid data foundation that is aligned with a well-defined business strategy. The emphasis on AI raises the need for a well-designed data strategy and fully capitalizing on the opportunities presented by AI and Generative AI.

“Leaders must understand business priorities and effectively utilize advanced technology.”

Managing Resource Constraints and Technological Advancements

A significant challenge has been managing resource constraints as organizations strive to operate more efficiently. There is a strong focus on optimizing technology investments and minimizing technical debt, but maintaining and recruiting talent has become increasingly critical, especially given the frequent job changes in the industry. Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and new entrants can be daunting, mainly when dealing with existing technical debt. Concurrently, there's a noticeable shift towards adopting open standards in data management, with companies like Microsoft, Snowflake and Databricks leading this evolution. This trend offers new opportunities for innovation and efficiency.

Evolving Expectations for Data Integration and Real-Time Access

Expectations are shifting towards creating more immersive data experiences. It’s no longer sufficient to just deliver data products like dashboards and curated datasets. The focus is now on integrating data seamlessly into business processes. The way people interact with data is changing, influenced by technologies like ChatGPT, which have reset expectations for accessing information. There will be an increased demand for real-time data access and higher accuracy and trust in data outputs. Leaders must navigate these evolving expectations and ensure their organizations can adapt to these new standards.

Strategic Oversight

The growing emphasis on real-time data access and utilization underscores the need for leaders adept in business and technology. As organizations migrate to the cloud, leaders must understand business priorities and effectively utilize advanced technology to drive maximum value.

Aligning Data Strategy with Business Values and Priorities

Understand where the value is within your organization and be closely aligned with business leaders and business strategy. Familiarize yourself with how your organization delivers value is market, where priorities lie and how money flows within the enterprise. This alignment helps focus efforts on the right aspects of data management and ensures data strategies are effectively integrated with business goals.